De Blasio Administration Announces Kickoff of Early Voting in New York City

For the first time in history New Yorkers will be able to vote early from tomorrow, Saturday, October 26 until Sunday, November 3. (NY City Hall Press Office Photo)

NEW YORK—The de Blasio Administration and DemocracyNYC today announced the beginning of early voting in New York City, after the passage of the State Legislature this year. For the upcoming General Election and every election moving forward, New Yorkers will have nine (9) extra days to cast their ballot before Election Day. New Yorkers may also choose to vote on Election Day.

“Voting is essential to our democracy,” said Mayor de Blasio. “I encourage all New Yorkers to take advantage of these nine extra days – get out and make your voice heard.”

“Early voting will help those who have traditionally struggled to get to the polls on Election Day,” said J. Phillip Thompson, Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives. “From now on, all New Yorkers – including seniors, people with disabilities, parents and people who have a difficult work schedule – will have the time they need to be able to participate in our democracy and make their voices heard through the power of their vote.”

The Board of Elections designated 33 public schools for early voting citywide this year. The Administration is working across city agencies to ensure all 33 school sites are safe and secure, and there is minimal disruption to the school day. Schools will continue to serve free breakfast and lunch to all students every day, and the Department of Education (DOE) is guaranteeing a hot lunch throughout the early voting period.

DOE’s safety and facilities directors will visit each school every day, and every building will receive additional staffing including NYPD officers, BOE Monitors, and custodial staff. Information about each site has being sent home to families, and the DOE will remain in close contact with principals.

For the 2019 General Election, early voting starts tomorrow Saturday, October 26 and runs until Sunday, November 3. Hours vary by day and include morning, evening, and weekend hours. Registered voters will be assigned to one early voting poll site in the borough in which they reside. In New York City, this fall’s ballot includes the race for Public Advocate, amendments to the city charter, and local races across the City.

New Yorkers who prefer to vote on Election Day may do so on Tuesday, November 5 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at their Election Day poll site.

To find Early Voting and Election Day poll sites, operating hours, and what’s on the ballot, visit www.voting.nyc or call 311.